”Designed specifically for those that need their bike, the road and little else.” That is Crumpler’s tagline for its Bumper Issue messenger pack, a funky backpack made for mountain biking, commuting or urban riding. The tagline is missing one key element: Water. As of January 2009, hydration packs have been among Crumpler’s product line, which is otherwise known for its unique messenger bags and packs.
The Bumper Issue looks like a Crumpler messenger-style backpack from the outside. It has the same bright colors and signature lines and fabric cuts as seen on other bags from the company.
But the Bumper Issue is cut narrower for a performance fit. It has a sternum strap to keep it on tight while biking in the city or on trails. For hydration, it comes with a 70-ounce hydration reservoir that sits in a sleeve. There are hose ports on both shoulder straps.
The 1,400-cubic-inch pack has a water-resistant shell, a handful of internal pockets, and exterior straps on the side to stash a jacket. For night riding, the pack includes various reflective surfaces to make you more visible to people driving cars.
Designed as a hiking and biking pack, the Bumper Issue is currently available in green, red, brown, black and camouflage motifs. It costs $95. www.crumplerbags.com
—Ryan Dionne
